Two arrested in homicide case involving pedestrians struck by vehicle

On Feb. 13, at approximately 1:45am, Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) officers were dispatched to the area of 3rd Street and Pine Avenue regarding a vehicle-versus-pedestrian accident, which resulted in the death of a female adult.
Arriving officers found two individuals on the ground. Both victims were transported to a local hospital, where one succumbed to her injuries. The deceased is being identified as 24-year-old Serena Medina, a resident of Long Beach.
Homicide and Accident Investigation Detail Detectives responded to the scene to investigate and determine whether or not it was an intentional act. The preliminary investigation revealed a group became involved in an altercation, two individuals were struck by a vehicle, and the vehicle fled the scene. As the investigation progressed, it became clear to investigators that it was not a typical traffic accident and was possibly an intentional act.
Detectives searched for the vehicle throughout the day and late into the evening. Detectives located the suspect’s vehicle in the city of Compton and arrested 26-year-old Froylan Velazquez, a resident of Compton.
On Feb. 19, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office formally charged Velazquez with vehicular manslaughter and felony hit-and-run. Also, on Feb. 19, detectives arrested 26-year-old Edward Martinez, a resident of Bellflower, in connection with the incident. Martinez was booked for being an accessory and is awaiting arraignment.
Anyone with information regarding the investigation is asked to contact Long Beach Police Homicide Detectives Hugo Cortes or Peter Lackovic at (562) 570-7244. Those wishing to remain anonymous may call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or text TIPLA plus the tip to 274637 (CRIMES), or visit LACrimeStoppers.org .
Source: LBPD